Foolish Atheists

I'm so happy that the first time I've heard anything about a local atheist group in the Cleveland news, that it's something that makes us look bad. (Be sure to watch the video as well.)

Student organizations at Lorain County Community College are trying to recruit new members this week. But scores of students are livid about a poster put up by a group called "campus activists for atheism."

It contains a depiction of Jesus Christ many consider blasphemy. The poster shows a man kissing christ-like figure with the words "Jesus Christ had a homosexual relationship?"

Of course I support free speech, especially at a publicly funded school, but that doesn't mean I or anyone else has to agree what is said. Additionally, I don't think atheists should have to tip toe around religion for fear of offending someone, but it may sometimes be wise to be mindful of one's approach when broaching the topic of religion with a believer.

In this instance, the group seems to be going out of their way to stir up negative attention causing more harm than good. If the atheist group hopes to win over some believers, this is counterproductive. Aggressive tactics just promote an us vs. them attitude causing people to become even more resistant. It shuts down what little dialog there already was. But who cares about the big picture when you can stir up a little controversy and high five your buddies when you see everyone riled up and the news vans pulling around to talk to you? Who cares if this is at the price of causing public opinion of atheists to sink even lower?

Thank you all for giving believers an excuse to think poorly of us so you can all bask in the ego massaging rays of a little attention.


Funny, I was just listening to a podcast (mp3) (video below) on The Atheist Experience about foolish atheists who make the rest of us look bad.